Cherry Bourbon Balls: No-Bake Chocolate-Covered Holiday Treats Recipe
Cherry Bourbon Balls are delightful no-bake holiday treats combining rich chocolate, sweet cherries, toasted pecans, and a warm bourbon flavor. These elegant bites are perfect for Christmas dessert platters or as festive edible gifts, featuring a smooth chocolate coating and a candied cherry garnish.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Nut Mixture
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
Butter Mixture
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Chocolate Coating
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp shortening or coconut oil
Garnish
- 30 candied cherry halves
Instructions
- Soak the Pecans: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans and bourbon. Let the mixture soak for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the pecans to absorb the bourbon flavor thoroughly.
- Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing continuously until the mixture is light, fluffy, and properly combined.
- Combine: Stir the bourbon-soaked pecans along with the finely chopped maraschino cherries into the butter and powdered sugar mixture until well blended.
- Shape: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined tray, then refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up before chocolate dipping.
- Melt Chocolate: In a saucepan over low heat, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the shortening or coconut oil, stirring constantly until the chocolate becomes smooth, glossy, and fully melted.
- Dip and Garnish: Using forks or toothpicks, dip each chilled bourbon ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated balls back on parchment paper and top each with a candied cherry half for an elegant finish.
- Set and Serve: Refrigerate the dipped balls until the chocolate coating is firm. Store finished bourbon balls in airtight containers, keeping them refrigerated until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use quality bourbon: Opt for a smooth bourbon brand to enhance flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
- Toast the pecans beforehand to bring out deeper nutty aromas and richer flavor.
- Chill the mixture before dipping to prevent the balls from breaking apart in the melted chocolate.
- For an alcohol-free version, substitute bourbon with cherry or apple juice, making these treats kid-friendly.
- Storage: Keep the bourbon balls refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 2 months.
